Cadaveric models for vascular surgery training

Objective: This review aims to provide a methodology for cadaveric model creation and detail various cadaveric models that have been used in vascular surgery education and can be adapted for further use. Methods: The vascular anatomy of the cadavers was first assessed with diagnostic angiography to ensure adequacy for use in creating a cadaveric training model.Pulsatile flow with a motorized pump was established by accessing the left common carotid artery with an open approach for the inflow and accessing the left common femoral artery using a percutaneous approach to establish an outflow.Models for training various common vascular surgery procedures were then created.The residents themselves were involved in the creation of the models to maximize teaching.Results: These models created include an angiogram model, an infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm model, a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm model, a Type B aortic dissection model, and a pulmonary embolism model, all with pulsatility that can simulate normal arterial hemodynamics.Angiography, endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR), complete proximal balloon control (PBC) and supraceliac aortic cross-clamping (SAC), thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR), the Provisional Extension to Induce Complete Attachment (PETTICOAT) technique, the Knickerbocker technique, the STABILISE technique, the candy-plug technique, and mechanical thrombectomy in the pulmonary artery were all successfully performed on these models.Conclusions: Cadaveric models have become increasingly important in vascular surgery training, providing realistic environments for procedural practice and team-based learning, with J o u r n a l P r e -p r o o f 3 ongoing improvements to enhance their applicability and use.The lifelike simulation allows trainees to learn the intricacies of each procedure that may not be thoroughly discussed during real clinical scenarios.